Formulation and method for treating plants to control or suppress a plant pathogen

ABSTRACT

The present invention provides formulations and methods for controlling or suppressing bacterial or fungal plant pathogens, including  Erwina amylovora  the bacteria that causes fire blight. A formulation for controlling of suppressing a plant pathogen may include at least one beneficial species of bacteria, at least one beneficial species of fungi, a nutrient, at least one compound that extends the length of time that the formulation remains effective. Typically the formulation is applied to the above ground structures of the plant including its leaves, flowers, stems, trunk, blossoms and fruit.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of International Patent ApplicationSer. No. PCT/US2005/025012 filed Jul. 13, 2005, which claims the benefitof U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/587,563 filed on Jul.13, 2004, both of which are hereby incorporated by reference in theirentirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to formulations and methods for controlling andsuppressing plant pathogens.

Plants including many commercially valuable cultivars ranging from fruittrees and crop plants to ornamental shrubs are affected by pathogensincluding a wide spectrum of bacterial and fungal pathogens. Takentogether bacterial and fungal infestations have a huge economic impacton commercial agriculture. Many pathogenic microorganisms are spread byinsect activity consequently much damage attributable to insectinfestations is in fact caused by microorganisms which insects spreadfrom infected to uninfected plants. Another common pathway for thespread of infection is wind or rain. Accordingly, a great deal of timeand expense is devoted to trying to protect plants from these pathogensor to minimize the damage they do once they infect a given plant.

Bacterial pathogens which do significant damage to cultivated plants,include, for example, Xanthomonas campestric, which causes leaf blight,and X. campestric (which causes Walnut blight). One particularlydevastating bacterial pathogen is fire blight caused by the bacteriumErwinia amylovora this bacteria is related microorganisms which causesoft rot diseases such as E. carotovora and E. chrysanthemi, and speciesof E. Pantoea such as stewartii which causes Stewarts wilt in corn andhervicola. Fire blight infection is characterized by wilting and tissuenecrosis. Fire blight itself affects many varieties of commerciallyimportant pome fruit trees, many varieties of apple and pear trees areparticularly susceptible to fire blight. Other susceptible speciesinclude various varieties of stone fruit trees and some ornamentalplants.

Affected areas of plants with fire blight appear scorched and blackened,symptoms which give fire blight its common name. Symptoms vary with thesusceptibility of the plant and environmental conditions. Effects rangefrom the destruction of specific plant structures to the death of theentire plant. For a more detailed discussion of fire blight the readeris directed to an article by J. A. Eastgate, Molecular Plant Pathology(2000) 1 (6), 325-329 and references therein.

The microorganism which causes fire blight generally enters asusceptible plant through one of five primary routes for infestationthese include: formation of a canker; through a blossom; through newroot or shoot tissue; or in response to trauma damage caused by stormsor by human or animal activity. One common pathway to infection isthrough over-wintering of the organism in the bark of trees or in acanker on or in the bark. Cankers can be small and are easily overlookedduring the winter pruning efforts. During the spring, the pathogen mayooze from the canker in a sticky, sap-like liquid which is readilydispersed by rain, wind, and pollinating insects such as bees. Oncedispersed the pathogen may infect blossoms of the same or neighboringplants. Infection of the blossoms is commonly referred to as blossomblight.

Blossom blight represents one particularly devastating form of theinfection. Once the first infected stamen appears, pollinators, wind andrain can rapidly carry the pathogen from one bloom to another. An entireorchard can be colonized within a several hours or few days; whenenvironmental conditions are suitable, the pathogen population candouble within 20 to 30 minutes. Consequently, fire blight has been knownto spread exponentially through stands of susceptible plants. Whenconditions favor the pathogen it may sweep across an entire apple orpear tree orchard in a matter of only two to three days.

Once fire blight has infected a portion of a plant, growers must actaggressively to isolate the infected portion or in some cases the entireplant. Failure to take the appropriate remedial action immediately mayresult in loss of the entire orchard or surrounding nurseries. The mostcommon approach to trying to control an outbreak of fire blight is toaggressively prune and in some cases completely destroy the infectedplants. It is also common practice to destroy nearby non-infected plantsin order to reduce the risk that the infection may spread into theentire orchard.

Additional approaches to fire blight control include treating plantswith copper salts and antibiotics such as streptomycin and/ortetracycline. Since treatment after infestation is not always effective,nurseries often resort to prophylactically treating entire orchards withantibiotics to try and reduce the susceptibility of their crops to fireblight. As a result there have been reports of increased amounts ofantibiotic residues in fruits, insects, and the soil around someorchards treated for fire blight. Furthermore, the widespread use ofantibiotics has helped to select for variants of E. amylovara that areresistance to the antibiotics commonly used against E. amylovora.Despite these efforts, epidemics of fire blight appear to explode inorchards, many of which have no known history of infestation with fireblight. Clearly then, currently used methodologies for the control offire blight are not particularly effective.

Equally devastating to various commercially important crops areinfestations caused by fungal plant pathogens. Fungal pathogens ofconsiderable economic impact include, but are in no ways limited to:Venturia inaequalis, which causes Apple Scab; Gnomonia setecea whichcauses Birch Blight; Mycosphaerella populorum, which causes Septoria(Leaf Spot) in Dogwood trees; Gymnosporangium globosum, which affectsHawthorn trees and shrubs; and Kabatina juniperii, which cause a from ofJuniper Blight. Because the fungal infestations are difficult to treat,growers often take prophylactic action to reduce the risk for infection.Prophylactic activities include pruning, isolating and oftentimesdestroying trees or other plants infected with fungal pathogens. Otherapproaches currently available include the application of chemical andbiological fungicides. These approaches are often expensive and they arenot always wholly effective in suppressing the infestation orcontrolling the economic damage done by fungal plant pathogens.

There is a need then for effective, economical formulations and methodsfor the control and suppression of plant pathogens including thosecaused by pathogenic bacteria and fungi.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1 is a scanned image of trees infected with fire blight.

FIG. 2 is a scanned image of leaves from a tree infected with fireblight.

FIG. 3 is a scanned image of a tree, which had been infected with fireblight and sprayed to try and control the infection.

FIG. 4 is a scanned image of a plant that was infected with fire blightand has been sprayed at least twice using a formulation for controllingfire blight.

FIG. 5 is a scanned image of a tree sprayed with a formulation forcontrolling fire blight.

FIG. 6 is a scanned image of a leaf from a tree sprayed with aformulation for controlling fire blight.

BRIEF SUMMARY

One aspect relates to a formulation for the suppression or control ofplant pathogens including, but not limited to, bacterial pathogens suchErwinia amylovora the bacterial which causes fire blight, and fungalpathogens such as: Venturia inaequalis, which causes Apple Scab;Gnomonia setecea which causes Birch Blight; Mycosphaerella populorum,which causes Septoria (Leaf Spot) in Dogwood trees; Gymnosporangiumglobosum, which affects Hawthorn trees and shrubs; and Kabatinajuniperii, which cause a from of Juniper Blight.

Various aspects are novel, nonobvious, and provide various advantages.While the actual nature of the invention covered herein can only bedetermined with reference to the claims appended hereto, certain formsand features, which are characteristic of the preferred embodimentsdisclosed herein, are described briefly as follows.

One embodiment is a formulation for controlling or suppressing plantpathogens which includes beneficial bacteria, and fungi, as well asnutrients beneficial to the microorganisms and/or plant. These materialsare selected for their ability to help control and/or eliminate plantpathogens including for example, bacterial and fungal pathogens whichaffect plants. In one embodiment the formulation is applied to the aboveground surfaces of infected or susceptible plants to prevent, or controlinfections caused by plant pathogens such as E. amylovora.

In still another embodiment the formulation includes additionalcomponents that aid in the control of at least one plant pathogenincluding, for example, nutrients, surfactants, vitamins, minerals, leafstickers, wetting agents and the like. Suitable sticking agents include,but are not limited to aluminum silicate, Kaolin clay, yacca plantextract, and the like.

In another embodiment the formulation includes compounds that promotethe efficacy of the formulation including, but not limited to, compoundsthat protect at least one component of the formulation from UV lightand/or from rapid desiccation and/or by helping to form amicroenvironment favorable to the plant and beneficial microorganism.

Still another embodiment includes wetting agents that help to dispersethe formulation into aqueous preparations and may aid in spreading theformulation onto the surfaces of above ground plant structures.

In still another embodiment the formulation may include a variety ofother materials advantageous to plant health such as pesticides,insecticides, biocides, fungicides and the like.

Another aspect provides a formulation and method for controlling orsuppressing infection by plant pathogens or to reduce the amount ofdamage done to a planted area by an outbreak of a particular plantpathogen. Theses methods include spraying or drenching plants with aformulation for the control or suppression of plant pathogens such aspathogenic bacteria and/or fungi. The formulation may include one ormore of beneficial bacterial and fungi, nutrients and other ingredientsthat increase the health of the plant and/or beneficial microorganisms.The formulation may further include compounds that promote the efficacyof the formulation including, but not limited to, compounds that protectat least one component of the formulation from UV light or desiccationsor wetting agents that help to disperse the formulation into aqueouspreparations and may aid in spreading the formulation onto above groundplant structures.

One embodiment provides a formulation for controlling or suppressingplants pathogens, comprising: a set of microorganisms including at leastone beneficial bacteria; at least one beneficial fungi; at least onenutrient useful to either or both the plant and at least one beneficialmicroorganisms; and at least one compound which extends the effectivelife time of the formulation.

In one embodiment the formulation for the control or suppression ofplant pathogens includes at least one beneficial bacteria selected fromthe group consisting of: Bacillus subtilis, Baccillus licheniformis,Bacillus axotoformans, Bacillus megaterium, Bacillus coagulans, Bacilluspumulis, Bacillus thurengiensis, Bacillus stearotermophilis,Paenbacillius polymyxa, Paenibaccillus durum, Azotobactor chroococcum,Azotobacter vinleandii, Sacchromyces cervisiae, Streptomyces lydicus,Pseudomonas aureofaceans and Pseudomonas fluorescence.

In one embodiment the formulation for the control or suppression ofplant pathogens includes at least one fungi selected from the groupconsisting of: Laccaria bicolor, Laccaria butilus, Laccaria laccata,Paenibacillus polymyxa, Paenibacillus durum, Pisolitus tinctorius,Rhizopogon ellanae, Rhizopogon rubescens, Rhizopogon subscaerlescens,Rhizopogon vulgari, scleroderma cepa, scleroderma citrium.

In one embodiment the formulation for the control or suppression ofplant pathogens includes at least one microorganism selected from thegroup consisting of Trichoderma harzianum and Trichoderma konigii.

In one embodiment the formulation for the control or suppression ofplant pathogens includes at least one species of beneficial yeast suchas, for example, Saccharomyces cervisiae.

In one embodiment the formulation for the control or suppression ofplant pathogens includes at least one nutrient selected from the groupconsisting of: sea kelp extract, yucca plant extract, maltodextrin,dextrose, inactive yeast, calcium salt, humic acid, vitamin A, vitaminE, biotin, folic acid, vitamin B, vitamin B2, vitamin B3, vitamin B6,vitamin B7, vitamin B12, vitamin C, vitamin K, ammonia, phosphate, iron,calcium glucoheptonate, zinc, trace metals and other minerals commonlyfound in preparations such as some forms of clay and the like.

In one embodiment the formulation for the control or suppression ofplant pathogens is in a form suitable for application to the aboveground structures of plants. Above ground plant structures which can bedrenched or sprayed with the formulation include, but are not limitedto, a plant's stem, leaves, shoots, stalks, trunk, bark, petioles,fruiting bodies, fruits, flowers, buds and the like.

In one embodiment the formulation for the control or suppression ofplant pathogens includes at least one sticking agent. A sticking agentis a compound that increases the length of time that at least one othercomponent in the formation stays in contact with another component ofthe formulation and/or with a surface of the plant. Suitable stickingagents include, but are not limited to, yacca plant extract, and clayssuch as Kaolin clay, fine benign hygroscopic powders and the like.

In one embodiment the formulation for the control or suppression ofplant pathogens includes at least one compound that extends the timeperiod over which the formulation remains effective. Compounds forextending the effective period of a formulation includes at least onecompound selected from the group consisting of aluminum silicate, fineclays, Kaolin clay, aluminum oxide, zinc oxide, and the like.

In one embodiment a formulation for the control or suppression of aplant pathogen is dispersed in an aqueous preparation. The aqueouspreparation may include between about 1.5 to about 12 pounds of fineclay, for example, Kaolin clay, per 100 gallons of aqueous preparation.

Another aspect is a method for controlling or suppressing plantpathogens which includes the steps of providing an aqueous formulationand applying the aqueous preparation to plants. The amount of thepreparation applied to a given field or stand of plants can be expressedas the number of gallons of a standard preparation of the formulationapplied per acre of planted area. The aqueous preparation on a onehundred gallon basis may include between about 1.0×10⁸ and 2.0×10⁸ cfuat of least one beneficial bacteria selected from the group consistingof Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus axotoformans, Bacillus megaterium,Bacillus coagulans, Bacillus pumulis, Bacillus thurengiensis, Bacillusstearotermophilis, Baccillus licheniformis, Paenbacillius polymyxa,Paenibaccillus durum, Azotobactor chroococcum, Azotobacter vinleandii,Streptomyces lydicus, Pseudomonas aureofaceans and Pseudomonasfluorescence; between about 1.0×10⁷ to about 20.0×10⁷ cfu of at leastone beneficial fungi selected from the group consisting of Rhizopogonrubescens, Rhizopogon vulgaris, Rhizopogon subscaerlescens, Rhizopongonellanae, Pisolithus tinctorius, Laccaria laccata and Laccaria bicolor,Scleroderma cepa, S. citrinum; between about 1.0×10⁸ and about 2.0×10⁸cfu of Saccromyces cervisiae; between about 1.2 to about 12 pounds ofaluminum silicate or Kaolin clay; between about 20 to about 100 grams ofyeast extract; between about 20 to about 100 grams of calciumglucoheptonate; between about 20 to about 100 grams of yacca plantextract, and between about 100 grams to about 500 grams of sea kelp.

In one embodiment the aqueous preparation is applied in the amount ofbetween 15 gallons to about 350 gallons per acre of area including theplants of interest.

In one embodiment a formulation not intended for treatment of certainplants that produce edible fruits or other edible structures mayinclude, between about 2.5×10⁷ cfu to about 5.0×10⁷ cfu of at least onestrain of Tricoderma selected form the group consisting of T. harzianumand T. konigii and between about 1.0×10⁸ to about 2.0×10⁸ cfu Baccilluslicheniformis per one hundred gallons of an aqueous preparation.

Further objects, features, aspects, forms, advantages and benefits shallbecome apparent from the description and drawings contained herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of theinvention, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustratedherein and specific language will be used to describe the same. It willnevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of theinvention is thereby intended. Any alterations and further modificationsin the described processes, systems or devices, and any furtherapplications of the principles of the invention as described herein, arecontemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to whichthe invention relates.

Suppression or suppressing—generally refers to preventing a disease orpathogen from infecting or affecting a given plant or group of plants.When these terms are used herein no claim is made as to the actualmechanism of suppression, for example, a given suppressor may be actingas a biocide, bactericide, bacteriostat, fungicide, fungistat,insecticide, or it may interfere with one or more functions of a givenpathogen that enables the pahtogen to infect a given plant under a givenset of environmental conditions, or by any other mechanism. All that isto be inferred by use of the terms suppression or suppressing is that agiven formulation appears to prevent a plant from becoming symptomaticfor infection or assault by at least one plant pathogen.

Control or Controlling—generally refers to limiting the economic damagedone to a given plant or group of plants by limiting the damage done tothe plants by at least one plant pathogen. When this term is used hereinno claim is made as to the actual mechanism of pathogen control, forexample, a given formulation may act to control a pathogen by acting asa bactericide, bacteriostat, fungicide, fungistat, insecticide, or byinterfering with one or more functions of a given pathogen that enablesthe pathogen to infect a given plant under a given set of environmentalconditions, or by any other mechanism. All that is to be inferred by useof the terms control or controlling is that a given formulation appearsto reduce the amount of damage done by a plant pathogen to a given plantrelative to a similarly situated plant that is likewise infected withthe pathogen, but not exposed to the formulation.

The present invention provides formulations and methodologies forcontrolling or suppressing plant pathogens including, but notnecessarily limited to, pathogenic bacteria and fungi. The group ofplant pathogens that can be controlled using formulations made inaccordance with various embodiments include, but are not limited toErwinia amylovora the bacteria, which causes fire blight and the fungusVenturia inaequalis, which causes Apple Scab.

The formulations according to various embodiments may include at leastone beneficial bacteria species. Beneficial bacteria are bacteria whichfavorably impact the health of a given plant under a given set ofenvironmental conditions or in response to given realized or potentialthreat to the health of the plant. Beneficial bacteria, positivelyimpact plant health by a variety of mechanism including, but not limitedto: occupying a growth space otherwise occupied by a pathogen; creatinga micro-environment which disfavors the colonization, growth ordevelopment of at least one plant pathogen; providing at least onecompound that is usefully to the health of the plant; providing anincrease in the uptake of plant nutrients and minerals; binding toreceptors on the surface to the plant that would otherwise be occupiedby at least one plant pathogen; directly or indirectly contributing tothe well being of other beneficial organisms; and any combination of theaforementioned mechanisms.

Examples of beneficial bacteria include, but are not limited toAzotobactor chroococcum, Azobacter vinleandii, Bacillus azotoformans,Bacillus coagulans, Bacillus megaterium, Bacillus polymyxa, Bacilluspumilis, Bacillus sterotermophilis, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillusthuringiensis, Paenibacillus polymyxa, Paenibacillus durum,Paenibacillus asotobixans, Pseudomonas aureofaceans, Pseudomonasfluorescence, Pseudomonas monteilii, Streptomyces lydicus, Streptomycesgriseoviridis, and mixtures thereof.

The formulations according to various embodiments may include at leastone beneficial fungal species. Beneficial fungi are fungi whichfavorably impact the health of a given plant under a given set ofenvironmental conditions or in response to given realized or potentialthreat to plant health. Beneficial fungi, positively impact plant healthby a variety of mechanism including, but not limited to: occupying agrowth space otherwise occupied by a potential pathogen; creating amicro-environment which disfavors the colonization, growth ordevelopment of at least one plant pathogen; providing at least onecompound that is usefully to the health of the plant; providing anincrease in the uptake of plant nutrients and minerals; binding toreceptors on the surface to the plant that would otherwise be occupiedby at least one plant pathogen; directly or indirectly contributing tothe well being of other beneficial organisms; and any combination of theaforementioned mechanisms.

Examples of beneficial fungi include, but are not limited to Laccariabicolor, Laccaria butilus, Laccaria laccata, Paenibacillus polymyxa,Paenibacillus durum, Pisolitus tinctorius, Rhizopongon ellanae,Rhizopogon rubescens, Rhizopogon subscaerlescens, Rhzopogon vulgaris,Scleroderma cepa and S. citrinum.

Embodiment not intended for use on certain fruit tress and crop plantsmay also include the beneficial microorganisms Trichoderma harzianum,Trichoderma konigii, and Bacillus licheniformis.

Additional beneficial microorganisms may include for example, the yeastSaccharomyces cervisiae.

The formulations according to various embodiments may also include atleast one microorganism that is involved in nutrient cycling. Nutrientscycled by a given microorganism may benefit a plant by, for example,directly supply the plant with at least one useful compound, or bysupplying other useful microorganisms in the microenvironment with atleast one necessary or useful compound. Additional benefits fromnutrient recycling may include replenishing at least one compound thatadversely affects the health or survival of at least one plant pathogen.It is to be understood that a given microorganisms may simultaneouslyperform more than one of the aforementioned functions in a givenmicroenvironment.

The formulations according to various embodiments may include at leastone nutrient that is beneficial to the plant or to at least onebeneficial microorganism. Nutrients that may be included in theformulation include, but are not limited to, the following: carbonsources such as simple or complex carbohydrates; sources of nitrogeneither elemental such as ammonia or organically bound such as killedbacteria and or inactive yeast or extracts thereof; calcium, for examplein the form of calcium glucoheptonate; phosphates; metals such as iron,zinc, and other trace metals; vitamins including, but not limited tovitamin A, B complex, E, folic acid, and vitamins D and E, humic acid;yacca plant (Yacca schidegera) extract; and any mixture thereof.

The formulations according to various embodiments may include at leastone sticking agent. A sticking agent is a compound that has as at leastone its characteristics the ability to adhere to a surface structure ofa plant or to at least one other component in a given formulation.Suitable sticking agents include, but are not limited to yacca plantextracts, Kaolin clay; fine wet-able powders, and the like.

The formulations according to various embodiments may include at leastone agent or compound that at least helps to protect components of agiven formulation from the damaging effects of ultraviolet (UV)radiation, or from rapid desiccation. These compounds include, but arenot limited to fine clays, Kaolin clay, aluminum oxide, zinc oxide,aluminum silicate and the like.

The formulations according to various embodiments may include at leastone wetting agent. A wetting agent promotes the dispersal of theformulation in an aqueous environment. Wetting agents may also promote amore even, more efficient spreading of various components in theformulation onto above ground plant structures including, but notlimited to, leaves, stems, petioles, bark, blossoms, fruits and thelike. Suitable wetting agents include, but are not limited to yaccaplant extract.

In one embodiment, the method for treating a plant includes a spray ordrench application of an aqueous preparations of a formulation for thecontrol or suppression of a plant pathogen to the exposed surfaces of aplant, i.e., any part of the plant extending above ground. This includesthe undersides, top, or side surfaces of leaves, stems, trunk bark,buds, blossoms, flowers, fruits and the like, or parts thereof.

Many of the beneficial microorganisms named in the above have beenidentified as having certain beneficial effects when they are in thesoil or when they are associated with the roots of specific plants.Examples of bacteria in the list that are thought to interact at thesoil level with various plants include Bacillus azotoforman, which isinvolved in nitrogen fixation; B. azotoformans, which affects plantgrowth; B. polymyza which exhibits antifungal activity; B. thuringiensiswhich is entormopathogenic; B. licheniformis which acts on theproduction of plant growth hormones, and B. pumulis which is involved innutrient cycling.

For further discussion of some of these microorganisms the reader isdirected to the following references all of which are hereinincorporated by reference in their entirety: Timmusk S, Wagner E G., Theplant-growth-promoting rhizobacterium Paenibacillus polymyxa induceschanges in Arabidopsis thaliana gene expression: a possible connectionbetween biotic and abiotic stress responses., Mol Plant MicrobeInteract. 1999 November; 12 (11):951-9; Ditengou, F A; Raudaskoski, M;Lapeyrie, F., Hypaphorine, an indole-3-acetic acid antagonist deliveredby the ectomycorrhizal fungus Pisolithus tinctorius, inducesreorganization of actin and the microtubule cytoskeleton in Eucalyptusglobules ssp bicostata root hairs., PLANTA. 2003, 218(2):217-225; Shi, LB; Guttenberger, M.; Kottke, I; Hampp, R., The effect of drought onmycorrhizas of beech (Fagus sylvatica L.): changes in communitystructure, and the content of carbohydrates and nitrogen storage bodiesof the fungi., MYCORRHIZA, 2002, 12(6):303-311; and Jentschke, G.,Winter, S., Godbold, D., Ectomycorrhizas and cadmium toxicity in Norwayspruce seedlings. [online] Abstract page of ICOM II website (Uppsala,Sweden) [retrieved on 2005 Mar. 08]. Retrieved from the Internet:<URL:http://mycorrhiza.ag.utk.edu/latest/icoms/ICOM2/ICOM2_Jentschke.htm.

Most of what is known about these organisms is characterized by how theyinteract with various plants when they are in the soil or in planttissue. One embodiment of the invention exploits the ability of at leastsome of these organisms to beneficially impact plant pathogensuppression and control when the organism are applied to the aboveground structures of various plants. The beneficial effects observed byapplication of some of these organisms to the above ground surfaces ofvarious plants may be enhanced by the additions of various nutrients.Similarly the beneficial effects observed are increased by the additionof relatively small amount of a fine clay compound such as Kaolin clay.

Another embodiment includes a spray or drench application about thelocus of the plants including, for example, spraying the ground aroundthe plant, particularly from the trunk or stem out to the drip lineand/or injecting an aqueous solution of the control formulation into theground around or under the plants or near the plant roots.

In one embodiment, an application of a formulation for the control orsuppression of a plant pathogen can includes dusting the exposedportions of a plant with a solid or powdered composition comprising theformulation. Still another embodiment includes applying the powderedcomposition to the ground around the plants or in the ground under theplants.

The spraying primarily of a liquid preparation of the formulation can beaccomplished by a variety of methods including, but not limited to,blast sprayers, hose reel and hand gun, walking sprays, aerial spraysand the like.

One embodiment provides formulations for the prophylactic treatment ofplants prior to exposure to an infectious agent or after confirmed orsuspected exposure but before the plant become symptomatic for aninfection. Still another embodiment provides control of a pathogen byapplying the formation to plants, which exhibit the symptoms and/orother evidence of infection of bacterial or fungal plant pathogens.Still another embodiment can control an infestation of plant pathogen byreducing the amount of damage done to the plant and by at least slowingthe rate at which the infestation spreads to other parts of the hostplant.

For suppression of a plant pathogen a prophylactic treatment applicationcan be made before the first signs of infestation or when environmentalconditions appear to favor an outbreak.

In one embodiment, the formulation is applied to plants as required andin conformity with all governmental mandates and laws. In oneembodiment, aqueous ready-to-use spray formulation is appliedprophylactically before the first appearance of flower or in early tofull bloom. The prophylactic treatment can be repeated as desired ordeemed expedient based upon the environmental conditions and/or theobservance of bacterial infestation of neighboring plants, fields ororchards.

One embodiment provides the ability to control and significantly reduceand perhaps eliminate fire blight infestation from an infected plant.Application of a control formulation to an infected plants is notdependent upon whether the plants have been previously treated or theclass or identity of the active ingredient that was previously used totry and kill and/or control the infection.

In one embodiment, the application sequence includes at least a firstapplication to the plants at the early flower stage, including forexample, the appearance of first stamen to full bloom. The treatmentregime can also include at least one additional application as necessaryto control an infection or threat of infection. Appropriate additionalapplications can be made, for example, at about ⅔ flower or within 10 to14 days of the first application, or longer depending upon theparticular formulation used, environmental conditions and overall healthand susceptibility of the plants.

One embodiment provides a formulation for the control or suppression ofa pathogen that extends the period of time over which the formulation iseffective.

In other embodiments, a control formulation is applied no later thenabout 2 weeks prior to harvesting edible fruit.

In one embodiment a formulation for the control or suppression of apathogen includes at least one beneficial bacteria species. In stillanother embodiment a given formulation may include, for example, three,four, five, ten, or more different beneficial bacterial species admixedtogether along with sufficient nutrients. The formulation includes thebeneficial bacteria species in an amount sufficient to control orsuppress infestation with a bacterial or fungal pathogen in plants.Formulations intended for above ground use, generally include only ectomycorrhizal species of fungi.

In one embodiment the formulation can includes between about 1.0×10⁷ cfuand about 1.0×10¹¹ cfu of a single beneficial bacterial species per gal.(2.5×10⁹ cfu/gal.). In another embodiment the ready-to-use formulationincludes between about 1.0×10⁸ cfu and about 1.0×10¹⁰ cfu of a singlebacterial species per gal. It will be understood that the ready-to-useformulation can include a number of different bacterial species eachincluded in the above prescribed, approximate amounts.

As with the bacterial species, a given control or suppressionformulation can include more than one fungal species, for example, thecontrol formulation may include two, three, four, five or ten or moredifferent species of fungus. The different fungus species can includeeither endo mycorrhizae or ecto mycorrhizae species, each includedfungus species can be included in an amount sufficient to provide atleast one beneficial effect to the plant.

In one embodiment, a ready-to-use formulation can contain between about1.0×10⁵ cfu/gal and about 1.0×10⁹ cfu/gal of a single fungus per gal.(7.5×10⁷ cfu per gal.). More preferably the ready-to-use formulation caninclude between about 1.0×10⁶ cfu/gal and about 1.0×10⁸ cfu/gal of asingle fungus per gal. It will be understood that the ready-to-useformulation can include a number of different fungi, each included inthe above prescribed, preferred amounts.

In one embodiment, the formulation for the control or suppression of aplant pathogen includes a mixture of mycorrhizal and tricoderma species.

In one embodiment the formulation for the control or suppression of apathogen includes at least one ecto mycorrhizal species in combinationwith at least one species of Tricoderma and at least one species ofbeneficial bacteria.

In one embodiment the formulation can also include a nutrient.Preferably the nutrient is selected for its ability to enhance thestability, longevity and/or propagation of the beneficial bacteria,fungi, plant structure or root plant. Examples of nutrients for use withthe present invention includes, but are not limited to humic acids,sugars, dextrins (particularly maltodextrin), dextrose, and dried yeast,or yeast extract. The nutrients can be added in amounts ranging betweenabout 1 wt % and about 15 wt %, based upon the total weight of theformulation.

The formulation can also include one or more emulsifying agents known tothose skilled in the art.

The plant pathogen control or suppression formulation can include avariety of optional additives. Stickers that may be used in someembodiments include, for example, soluble yucca plant extract derivedfrom the Yucca schidigera, fine clays and Kaolin clay. The sticker canbe combined in amounts up to about 12 wt % of the total weight of aready to use formulation. Surfactants can be used in the formulationincluding the anionic, cationic, and/or non-ionic types. Examples ofsurfactants include but are not limited to: aliphatic sulfonic estersalts like lauryl sulfate, aromatic sulfonic acid salts, salts oflignosulfates, and soaps. Examples of nonionic surfactants are thecondensation products of ethylene oxide with fatty alcohols such asoleylalcohol, alkyl phenols, lecithins, and phosphorylated surfactants,such as phosphorylated ethylene oxide/propylene oxide block copolymerand ethoxylated and phosphorylated styryl-substituted phenol. Additionalsurfactants are anionic wetting agents, such as sodium salts of sulfatedalkyl carboxylate, and/or alkyl naphtalenesulphonate, and/or dispersingagents such as naphthalene formaldehyde condensate

The formulation can also include a variety of other ingredients such asvitamins and minerals. Examples of vitamins for use in the compositioninclude but are not restricted to the following: biotin, folic acid,vitamins B, B2, B3, B6, B7, B12, C, and K. Examples of minerals includeany mineral that can enhance the growth of the plant and/or beneficialbacteria. Specific examples of minerals include: potassium, iron,sulfur, magnesium, boron, manganese, and zinc.

Still other embodiments includes within its scope the dusting orapplication of a plant pest control formulation or solid mixture thatincludes at least one beneficial bacteria, one beneficial fungi,nutrients for the beneficial microorganism, and a fine clay such asKaolin clay, which may extend the useful half-life of the formulation.

In the powdered mixture various carriers or fillers can be added.Examples of carriers or fillers include, but are not limited to,aluminum silicate, aluminum oxide, attaclay, bentonite, bole, calciumcarbonate, calcium sulfate, celite, chalk, diatomaceous earth, dolomite,Fuller's earth, gypsum, Kaolin clay, kieselguhr, lime, limestone,magnesia (powdered), magnesium oxide, pyrophyllite, silica gels,silicates, silicic acid, silicium oxide, and/or talc and mixturesthereof.

One embodiment includes within its scope a concentrated formulation forthe control or suppression of a plant pathogen. The concentratedformulation can be either a solid (powdered or granulated) mixture or aconcentrated, aqueous mixture. The concentrate can include any or all ofthe above described ingredients. The concentrated formulation mayinclude the ingredients described in the above in amounts of betweenabout 2 to about 10 fold of the amounts specifically described herein.In use, the concentrate can be admixed with water to provide theready-to-use formulation.

One embodiment provides a method for treating plants including fruitingplants, ornamental plants and deciduous plants to control and halt thespread of bacterial pathogens including, for example, fire blight(Erwinia amylovora). One embodiment includes treating the plants eitherprophylactically or after observance of infestation of the fire blightbacteria by applying a formulation for the control of the effects of themicroorganism.

The application sequence when used as an aqueous formulation for thecontrol of a plant pathogen such as fire blight includes applying asufficient amount of the formulation to reduce the amount of damage doneby the infection relative to plants similarly situated and not treatedwith the formulation. In one embodiment the ready-to-use sprayformulation is applied in an amount sufficient to thoroughly wet or coatthe leaves, flowers, stem, bark, trunk and the like without significantrun off of the sprayed material. In one embodiment at least oneadditional application of the formulation may be made as necessary tocontrol the pathogen.

For the purpose of promoting further understanding and appreciation ofthe present invention and its advantages, the following Examples areprovided. It will be understood, however, that these Examples areillustrative and not limiting in any fashion.

EXAMPLE 1 Testing the Efficacy of Applying Beneficial Microorganisms andNutrients Generally Applied to the Roots of a Plant to the Above GroundStructures of the Plant as a Method for Suppressing Fire Blight in PearTrees

A test plot was selected in east-central Indiana (U.S.A). The test plotincluded 17 rows of pear trees of differing species. The first 4 rowscontained Cambridge pear trees. These trees had previously been exposedto Erwinia amylovora, the species of bacteria that causes fire blight.About 67% of the trees had been infected; about half of the infectedtrees died. The test plot included surviving trees adjacent to theinfected dead trees. The next 2 rows were Autumn Blaze pear trees. Thesetrees had about a 15% infection rate with a mortality rate of 8%. Thenext 7 rows were Aristocrat pear trees, a variety which ishighly-susceptible to fire blight. The Aristocrat pear trees had about a15% infection rate from the previous year. These trees were larger thanthe other trees in the test plot having trunks with an average diameterof about 3 to 4 inches. The final 4 rows included Cleveland Select peartrees; these trees had an infection rate of about 5%; none of theseparticular trees succumbed to the infection rate.

The plants in the test plot were divided into two groups. The firstgroup (the control) was treated with a commercial product, MESSENGER®(sold by Eden Bioscience Corp., Bothell, Wash., USA). The activeingredient in MESSENGER® is Harpin protein. Harprin protein is thoughtto act against plant pathogens by inducing plants to activate their ownprotective mechanisms. About 9 ounces of MESSENGER® was mixed 100gallons of water; plants in the control group were sprayed with thismixture.

The second group of trees was treated with a formulation comprisingMESSENGER® and a fertilizer BIOPAK® Plus. According to its label,BIOPAK® Plus includes the beneficial bacteria Rhizosphere Bacillus inthe amount of 5 billion colony forming units (cfu) per pound on a dryweight basis. It also has the same elemental analysis listed in Table 2.The same amount of MESSENGER® was added to this formulation as was addedto the control, next 16 oz/100 gal of BIOPAK® Plus, was added to theformulation. A second group of trees were treated with this formulation.

All trees were treated at the first evidence of stamen development; ator about ⅓ of full bloom. A second application of both the control andthe formulation was done at about ⅓ of full flower (15 days after thefirst application). The applications were made at these times because ofthe rate of fire blight infestation is highest during this stage ofplant development.

The trees were observed on a regular basis after the application. Within45 days after the initial application, the trees treated with theMESSENGER® only composition still exhibited the effects of fire blight.Many visibly diseased spores were visible; discoloration of leaves andcup-shaped leaves were readily apparent.

Referring now to FIG. 5, a scanned image of a tree treated with a firstapplication of MESSENGER®. Referring now to FIG. 6, a scanned image of asingle leaf harvested from a tree previously infected with fire blightand then treated once with the formulation including the combination ofMESSENGER® and BIOPAK® Plus.

No disease spores were visible on the surfaces of the trees treated withthe MESSENGER® and BIOPAK® Plus combination. The new growth lookedhealthy it was free of contortions and had good color, development onthe leaves and the stems (both old and new) appeared normal. New growthappeared on the previously infected trees and showed the same promisingresults as was observed for the uninfected trees.

Visual inspection of the trees was carried out 90 days after the firstapplication of the formulation. The trees that were treated with thecontrol continued to show evidence of fire blight infestation.Furthermore, the disease appeared to have spread among some of thepreviously uninfected trees of this group. Conversely the trees treatedwit the formulation including both MESSENGER® and BIOPAK® Pluscombination showed no signs of discoloration or other symptoms of anactive fire blight infestation. Trees treated with the combinationformulation exhibited new growth and good color below the regions of thetrees killed by the previous fire blight infestation; no disease sporeswere detected in any of these trees.

Trees of the test plot were examined 120 days after the formulation wasfirst applied. The trees treated with the control MESSENGER® onlyappeared to be significantly worse than at the beginning of the studythese trees exhibited with evidence of further fire blight infestationand damage. The trees treated with the MESSENGER®/BIOPAK® Plusformulation still showed no physical signs of leaf or stem damage. Thesetrees exhibited good color, bud development, and an increase in diameteron new growth shoots. The trees treated with the combination formulationappeared to exhibit an increase in disease resistance, flowering, plantrespiration, cell division, photosynthesis, overall health and vigor; inshort an increase in salability. The results from experiment 1 aresummarized in Table 4. These results show that applying beneficialbacteria and nutrients generally applied to the soil to the above groundstructures of a plant can help protect the plant from developing fireblight. TABLE 1 Biocidal Composition Average Growth (cm) MESSENGER ® NewNew Pear MESSENGER ® and BIOPAK ® Internodal Leaves Leaves Row SpeciesOnly Plus Length Diameter Length Width 1 Cambridge X 30.3 0.6 8 5 2Aristocrat X 16 2.9 4 2.5 3 Aristocrat X 33 6 8 5 4 Cleveland X 37 5 64.5 5 Select 6 Cleveland X 28.8 3 4.5 5.5 Select

EXAMPLE2 Formulation in Accordance with One Embodiment Useful for theControl of Plant Pathogens Including Fire Blight

TABLE 2 Elemental Analysis % by weight  1. Total Nitrogen (N) 3  2.Soluble Potassium (K₂O) 20  3. Iron, Chelated (Fe) 7  4. Sulfur (5)Combined 4  5. Water Soluble Magnesium (Mg) 1.5  6. Manganese, Chelated(Mn) 0.2  7. Water Soluble Boron (B) 0.02  8. Zinc, Chelated (Zn) 0.2 9. Calcium glucoheptonate 5 10. Beneficial Bacteria 833 million cfu/lb11. Non-plant food ingredients

TABLE 3 Listing of Beneficial Bacteria and Fungi Million cfu/lb 1.Bacillus licheniformis 833 2. Bacillus megaterium 833 3. Bacilluspolymyxa 833 4. Bacillus subtilis 833 5. Bacillus thuringiensis 833 6.Paenibacillus azotofixans 833 7. Streptomyces griseoviridis 1 8.Trichoderma harzianum 10 9. Trichoderma konigii 10

TABLE 4 Listing of Nutrients % by weight 1. Humic acids 3.5 2. ColdWater Sea Kelp Extract 4 3. Soluble Yucca Plant Extract up to 12 4.Maltodextrin up to 8  5. Sugar (Dextrose) up to 12 6. Yeast 5

EXAMPLE 3 A Preferred Formulation in Accordance with One Embodiment,Useful for the Control and Suppression of Plant Pathogens

A formulation for the control or suppression of plant pathogensincluding fire blight was prepared including the compounds listed inTable 5. Whenever pome fruit trees such as Apple or Pear trees aretreated Tricoderma and Bacillus licheniformis can be removed from theformulation.

This formulation and variations thereof were used to treat trees andshrubs in an orchard and nursery near Dayton, Ohio (USA). The results ofthese tests are described in the following Examples. TABLE 5 Stocksolution for direct application includes unless noted otherwise. Unlessotherwise noted to one hundred gallons of water was added the following:Amount Description 45 grams dried inactive Sacchromyces cervisiae(yeast) 45 grams calcium glucoheptonate ¼ pound a mixture ofmicroorganisms from Mycroohizal Application Inc., Grants Pass Oregonwhich includes: (1.1 Billion cfu per pound total) of Rhizopogonrubescens, R. vulgaris, R. Subscaerlescens, R. ellanae, Pisolithustinctorius, Laccaria laccata, and L. bicolor, Sceeroderma cepa and S.citrinum. 10 Billion cfu per Bacillus subtilis, Baccillus licheniformis,Bacillus axotoformans, pound Bacillus megaterium, Bacillus coagulans,Bacillus pumulis, Bacillus thurengiensis, Bacillus stearotermophilis,Paenbacillius polymyxa, Paenibaccillus durum, Azotobactor chroococcum,Azotobacter vinleandii, Sacchromyces cervisiae, Streptomyces lydicus,Pseudomonas aureofaceans and Pseudomonas fluorescence, Scleroderma cepa,and S. citrinum. 3 Billion cfu per Tricoderma harzianum, and T.konigigii. pound 45 grams yacca plant extract 200 grams agriplus humicacid at 212 microization 181 grams North Atlantic sea kelp and vitamin apackage, which includes vitamins B, C and E.

EXAMPLE 4 Evaluation of a Formulation Useful for the Suppression of FireBlight in Pear Trees that are Susceptible to E. amylovora

Pear trees (Pyrus) that were exposed to E. amylovora the previousgrowing season, were treated with the formulation described in Example3, minus the yacca plant extract and Kaolin clay.

A first spraying was preformed using a blast sprayer operated at a rateof about 200 gallons per hour. The trees were sprayed early in thegrowing seasoning during late morning, at a temperature of 52 degrees,relative humidity 37%, winds of less than 5 miles per hour, and cloudyskies. About 100 gallons per acre of the formulation was applied to atotal of about 2.8 acres of Pear trees.

The tree in the test group were sprayed a second time proximately 9days. The formulation used in the second spraying included both yaccaextract as per the formulation in Example 3 and about 2.5 pounds per 100gallons of water. Spray conditions for the second application were 64degrees F., relative humidity of 67%, sunny, with a wind speed between 5and 10 miles per hour.

All of the trees, both sprayed and unsprayed, were inspectedapproximately one month from the date of the first application. Thetrees sprayed with the formulation appeared healthy and were deemed tobe in saleable condition. Trees in the sprayed rows showed no visibleevidence of any new infection with fire blight. The trees, that were notsprayed with the formulation appeared droopy and were judged to beunsaleable.

EXAMPLE 6 Evaluation of a Formulation Useful for the Suppression ofSeptoria (leaf spot) in Dogwood Trees Susceptible to Mycosphaerellapopulorum

Dogwood trees in a test group were sprayed a first time with theformulation described in Example 3, which did not include either yaccaplant extract or Kaolin clay. The first spraying was performed using awalking sprayer about 100 gallons per acre of the preparation wasapplied. The study included a total of forty-six (46) rows of treescovering a total of 1.9 acres. At the time of the first spraying inearly may the temperature was about 62 degrees F. and the wind speed wasabout 5 miles per hour.

The same trees were sprayed a second time about two weeks after thefirst spraying. The formulation used in the second spraying includedboth yacca plant extract and about 2.5 pounds of Kaolin clay per 100gallons of water. The temperature at the time of the second applicationwas 71 degrees F., relative humidity was 70%, the winds were calm andthe sky was cloudy.

Both sprayed and unsprayed trees were inspected about six weeks afterthe first spraying. Trees that were sprayed with the formulation showedlittle evidence of leaf spot.

EXAMPLE 7 Evaluation of a Formulation Useful for the Control of CedarHawthorn Rust in Hawthorn Trees Susceptible to Gymnosporangium globovum

A test group of Winter King Hawthorn trees were sprayed with theformulation described in Example 3, which did not include either yaccaplant extract or Kaolin clay. Spraying was performed using a walkingsprayer about 100 gallons per acre of the preparation was applied. Thestudy included fifteen rows of trees covering at total of about 1.44acres. At the time of the first spraying, in early May, the ambienttemperature was 64 degrees F., the wind was 5-10 miles per hour, andconditions were sunny.

Both sprayed and unsprayed trees were evaluated about three weeks afterthe first spraying. The sprayed trees exhibit signs of an early, verylight infection. The infection was allowed to develop. About one weekafter the three week inspection the trees were sprayed a second time.The formulation in the second spraying included both yacca plant extractand about 2.5 pounds of Kaolin clay per 100 gallons of water accordingthe formulation described in Example 3.

All trees were inspected about six weeks after the first spraying theleaves and fruits on the Hawthorn trees that were sprayed were in muchbetter condition than the leaves and fruits on the trees that were notsprayed. These results demonstrate that including compounds such a yaccaplant extract and Kaolin clay extend the period of time over which thisformulation remains effective.

EXAMPLE 8 Formulation Useful for the Control of Apple Scab in CrabapplePlants Susceptible to Venturia inaequalis

The ability of the formulation with and without Kaolin clay to controlapple scab was tested on groups of Robinson, Sugartyme and CardinalCrabapples trees. Trees in a test group were sprayed were sprayed withthe formulation described in Example 3, which did not include eitheryacca plant extract or Kaolin clay. The temperature at the time ofspraying was 65 degrees F., about 100 gallons of the formulation wasapplied per acre treated.

The trees were inspected about two weeks after the first spraying. Alltrees exhibited filaments on their petioles. Four days after the firstinspection trees in the test group were sprayed a second time with aformulation that included both yacca plant extract according to theformulation in Example 4 and about 2.5 pounds of Kaolin clay per 100gallons of water.

All trees were inspected two week after the second spraying. The sprayedtrees were free of any evidence of apple scab infestation includingfilaments on or near the petioles and or on the leaves. The resultdemonstrate the utility of adding clay and yacca plant extract to theformulation and the overall usefulness of the formulation in the controlof V. inaequalis on Crabapple Trees.

EXAMPLE 9 Formulation Useful for the Suppression of Fire Blight in PearTrees Susceptible to E. amylovora

A test group of Pyrus (Pear) Aristocrat and Pyrus Autumn Blaze treesthat were exposed to Fire Blight in the previous growing season weresprayed with the formulation prepared in accordance with the formulationdescribed in Example 3. The formulation used in the first spraying didnot include either yacca plant extract or Kaolin clay. Trees in the testgroup were sprayed during early to full bloom. At the time of the firstspraying the temperature was 70 F, about 100 gallons of the formulationwas applied per acre.

The sprayed plants were inspected biweekly and they showed no evidenceof fire blight for about 4 weeks. After four weeks signs of fire blightwere detected. The trees were then sprayed a second time. Theformulation used in the second spraying included both yacca plantextract according to the formulation in Example 3 and about 2.5 poundsof Kaolin clay per 100 gallons of water. The trees were inspected twoweeks after the second spraying and showed no change.

Having now been sprayed with a formulation including both yacca and clayit is expected that the treated trees will show less overall damage andmortality than the trees that were not sprayed with the formulation.

EXAMPLE 10 Forumulation Useful for the Suppression of Birch Rust inBirch Trees Susceptible to Gnomonia setecea

A test group of Birch trees were sprayed with the formulation preparedin accordance with the formulation described in Example 3. Theformulation used in the first spraying did not include either yaccaplant extract or Kaolin clay. Trees in the test group were sprayedduring early to full bloom using a Blast Sprayer. At the time of thefirst spraying the temperature was 71 F; about 50 gallons per acre ofthe formulation was applied to a total of about 1.95 acres.

The trees were inspected about 4 weeks after the first spraying. Noevidence of Birch Blight was found in either the treated or untreatedgroups of trees. All trees showed some spotting and yellowing, but thiswas attributed to a soil nutrient deficiency not a pathogen infestation.

EXAMPLE 11 Formulation Useful for the Suppression of Apple Scab inCrabapple Trees Susceptible to V. inaequalis

A test group of Prairie Fire and Snowdrift Crabapple trees were sprayedwith the formulation prepared in accordance with the formulationdescribed in Example 3. The formulation used in the first spraying didnot include either yacca plant extract or Kaolin clay. Trees in the testgroup were sprayed during early to full bloom using a Blast Sprayer. Atthe time of the first spraying the temperature was 58 degrees F., therelative humidity was about 50 per cent the wind speed was about 13 mphunder cloudy skies. About 100 gallons per acre of the formulation wasapplied to about 24 rows of trees located on 4.26 acres of land.

The trees were sprayed a second time about four weeks after the firstspraying. The formulation used in the second spraying included bothyacca plant extract according to the formulation in Example 3 and about2.5 pounds of Kaolin clay per 100 gallons of water.

The sprayed trees looked better than the trees in the control groupwhich were not sprayed, although even the sprayed trees showed light tomedium scab development.

In light of this second spraying which included Kaolin clay and yaccaplant extract it is likely, that the sprayed trees will show less damageand mortality than the trees that were not sprayed.

EXAMPLE 12 Formulation Useful for the Suppression of Juniper Blight inJuniper Shrubs Susceptible to Kabatuna juniperii

A test group of Juniper shrubs were sprayed with the formulationprepared in accordance with the formulation described in Example 3. Theformulation used in the first spraying included yacca plant extract inaccordance with the formulation described in Example 4 and 2.5 pounds ofKaolin clay per 100 gallons of water. Trees in the test group weresprayed using a walking sprayer. Conditions at the time of the firstspraying were: temperature 71 degrees F., winds calm and skies cloudy.

Two rows, one of about 1.74 acres and a second row of about 2.75 acreswere spayed. About 50 gallons per acre of the formulation was applied.The trees were inspected in early July, about three weeks after theformulation was applied, none of the sprayed trees showed any evidenceof Juniper Blight.

All references, patents, patent application and the like cited hereinand not otherwise specifically incorporated by references in theirentirety, are hereby incorporated by references in their entirety as ifeach were separately incorporated by reference in their entirety.

An abstract is included in to aid in searching the contents of theabstract are not intended to be read as explaining, summarizing orotherwise characterizing or limiting the invention in any way.

While the invention has been illustrated and described in detail, thisis to be considered as illustrative, and not restrictive of the patentrights. The reader should understand that only the preferred embodimentshave been presented and all changes and modifications that come withinthe spirit of the invention are included if the following claims or thelegal equivalent of these claims.

The present invention contemplates modifications as would occur to thoseskilled in the art. It is also contemplated that processes embodied inthe present invention can be altered, duplicated, combined, or added toother processes as would occur to those skilled in the art withoutdeparting from the spirit of the present invention.

Unless specifically identified to the contrary, all terms used hereinare used to include their normal and customary terminology.

Further, any theory of operation, proof, or finding stated herein ismeant to further enhance understanding of the present invention and isnot intended to make the scope of the present invention dependent uponsuch theory, proof, or finding.

While the invention has been illustrated and described in detail in thedrawings and foregoing description, the same is considered to beillustrative and not restrictive in character, it is understood thatonly the preferred embodiments have been shown and described and thatall changes and modifications that come within the spirit of theinvention are desired to be protected.

1. A formulation for controlling plants pathogens, comprising: a mixtureof at least five beneficial bacteria; a mixture of at least fivebeneficial fungi; at least one nutrient; and at least one compound whichextends the effective life time of said formulation, said compound beingselected from the group consisting of aluminum silicate, fine clay,Kaolin clay, aluminum oxide, zinc oxide, and mixtures thereof.
 2. Theformulation according to claim 1, wherein said mixture of at least fivebeneficial bacteria includes at least one member selected from the groupconsisting of: Bacillus subtilis, Baccillus licheniformis, Bacillusaxotoformans, Bacillus megaterium, Bacillus coagulans, Bacillus pumulis,Bacillus thurengiensis, Bacillus stearotermophilis, Paenbacilliuspolymyxa, Paenibaccillus durum, Azotobactor chroococcum, Azotobactervinleandii, Streptomyces lydicus, Pseudomonas aureofaceans andPseudomonas fluorescence, Sclermoderoderma cepa, S. citrinum andmixtures thereof.
 3. The formulation according to claim 1, wherein saidmixture of at least five beneficial fungi includes at least one memberselected from the group consisting of: Laccaria bicolor, Laccariabutilus, Laccaria laccata, Paenibacillus polymyxa, Paenibacillus durum,Pisolitus tinctorius, Rhizopogon ellanae, Rhizopogon rubescens,Rhizopogon subscaerlescens, Rhizopogon vulgari, and mixtures thereof. 4.The formulation according to claim 3, further including at least one ofthe microorganisms from the group consisting of Trichoderma harzianumand Trichoderma konigii.
 5. The formulation according to claim 1,wherein said formulation further includes at least one beneficial yeastselected from the group consisting of: Saccharomyces cervisiae.
 6. Theformulation according to claim 1, wherein at least one of said nutrientsis selected from the group consisting of: sea kelp extract, yucca plantextract, maltodextrin, dextrose, inactive yeast, calcium salt, humicacid, vitamin A, vitamin E, biotin, folic acid, vitamin B, vitamin B2,vitamin B3, vitamin B6, vitamin B7, vitamin B12, vitamin C, vitamin K,ammonia, phosphate, iron, calcium glucoheptonate, zinc and mixturesthereof.
 7. The formulation according to claim 1, wherein saidformulation comprises at least 10 beneficial bacteria and at least 10beneficial fungi.
 8. The formulation according to claim 6, wherein saidformulation further includes an sticking agent selected from the groupconsisting of yacca plant extract, and Kaolin clay, and mixturesthereof, wherein said sticking agent increases the length of time thatat least one component of said formulation adheres to at least one ofsaid above ground plant structures.
 9. The formulation according toclaim 1, wherein said compound that extends the time period over whichsaid formulation is effective comprises Kaolin clay.
 10. The formulationaccording to claim 9, wherein said formulation is dispersed in anaqueous preparation and includes between 1.5 and 10 pounds of Kaolinclay per 100 gallons of aqueous preparation.
 11. A method forcontrolling plant pathogens, comprising the steps of: providing aformulation which includes, a mixture of at least five beneficialbacteria; a mixture of at least five beneficial fungi; at least onenutrient; and at least one compound which extends the effective lifetime of said formulation, said compound being selected from the groupconsisting of aluminum silicate, fine clay, Kaolin clay, aluminum oxide,zinc oxide, and mixtures thereof; and applying said formulation to atleast one surface of a plant.
 12. The method according to claim 11,wherein said applying is performed by at least one method selected fromthe group consisting of, spraying, dusting, and drenching said plantwith said formulation.
 13. The method according to claim 11, whereinsaid plant is susceptible to infection with at least one type of blight.14. The method of claim 11, wherein said mixture of at least fivebeneficial bacteria includes one or more members selected from the groupconsisting of: Bacillus subtilis, Baccillus licheniformis, Bacillusaxotoformans, Bacillus megaterium, Bacillus coagulans, Bacillus pumulis,Bacillus thurengiensis, Bacillus stearotermophilis, Paenbacilliuspolymyxa, Paenibaccillus durum, Azotobactor chroococcum, Azotobactervinleandii, Streptomyces lydicus, Pseudomonas aureofaceans andPseudomonas fluorescence, Sclermoderoderma cepa, S. citrinum andmixtures thereof.
 15. The method of claim 11, wherein said mixture of atleast five beneficial fungi includes one or more members selected fromthe group consisting of: Laccaria bicolor, Laccaria butilus, Laccarialaccata, Paenibacillus polymyxa, Paenibacillus durum, Pisolitustinctorius, Rhizopogon ellanae, Rhizopogon rubescens, Rhizopogonsubscaerlescens, Rhizopogon vulgari, Trichoderma harzianum, Trichodermakonigii, Saccharomyces cervisiae and mixtures thereof.
 16. The method ofclaim 11, wherein at least one of said nutrients is selected from thegroup consisting of: sea kelp extract, yucca plant extract,maltodextrin, dextrose, inactive yeast, calcium salt, humic acid,vitamin A, vitamin E, biotin, folic acid, vitamin B, vitamin B2, vitaminB3, vitamin B6, vitamin B7, vitamin B12, vitamin C, vitamin K, ammonia,phosphate, iron, calcium glucoheptonate, zinc and mixtures thereof. 17.The method of claim 11, wherein said compound that extends the timeperiod over which said formulation is effective is Kaolin clay.
 18. Amethod for controlling plant pathogens comprising the steps of:providing an aqueous formulation for the control of a plant pathogenwherein said formulation includes on a one hundred gallon basis: betweenabout 100.0×10⁸ to about 200.0×10⁸ cfu at of least one beneficialbacteria selected from the list consisting of Bacillus subtilis,Baccillus licheniformis, Bacillus axotoformans, Bacillus megaterium,Bacillus coagulans, Bacillus pumulis, Bacillus thurengiensis, Bacillusstearotermophilis, Paenbacillius polymyxa, Paenibaccillus durum,Azotobactor chroococcum, Azotobacter vinleandii, Streptomyces lydicus,Pseudomonas aureofaceans and Pseudomonas fluorescence, between about5.0×10⁷ to about 20.0×10⁷ cfu of at least one beneficial fungi selectedfrom the group consisting of Rhizopogon rubescens, Rhizopogon vulgaris,Sclermoderma cepa, S. citrimum, Rhizopogon subscaerlescens, Rhizopongonellanae, Pisolithus tinctorius, Laccaria laccata and Laccaria bicolor;between about 100×10⁸ to about 200×10⁸ cfu of active Sacchromycescervisiae; between about 1.2 to about 10 pounds of aluminum silicate;between about 20 to about 100 grams of yeast extract; between about 20to about 100 grams of calcium glucoheptonate; between about 20 to about100 grams of yacca plant extract between about 100 grams to about 500grams of sea kelp; and applying said aqueous formulation to an areaincluding plants wherein the amount of said formulation applied to saidarea ranges from about 15 gallons to about 350 gallons per acre of saidarea, including plants.
 19. A method for controlling plant pathogensaccording to claim 18, wherein said aqueous formulation further includesbetween about 2.5×10⁷ cfu to about 5.0×10⁷ cfu of at least one strain ofTricoderma selected form the group consisting of T. harzianum and T.konigii.
 20. The method for controlling pathogens according to claim 18,wherein application is accomplished by spraying or drenching plants withsaid formulation.